First off, the config stuff is already externalized. I chose not to include that code because I didn't want to confuse the actual question. (Doing my homework and providing the simplest case. :} )

I think I see your point, but am not sure I followed the solution. I think you said, instead of opening/flocking/closing the data file twice, do something like this:

• Try to flock the sentinel.
• If it succeeds, open, read, edit, and close the data file.
• Release the sentinel.
• If the original flock failed, sleep for a period of time and then retry (up to a preset number of times, failing if the retries run out).

Is that right? (I'm just making sure I understand the basic logic before I dive into the code.)

-f

Update: Okay; I think I get it. Two follow ups:

• In your example, where is FH pointing? The data file or the sentinel?
• Kanji offered File::CounterFile. Any thoughts/feedback?

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